Hodge-Smith Advances BVI Tourism Push Following Asta
Junior Minister for Tourism Honourable Luce Hodge-Smith has reaffirmed the Territory's commitment to expanding its international tourism footprint following high-level panel discussions at the ASTA Caribbean Showcase in St. Kitts. The gathering focused on shifting traveler preferences toward culturally authentic, luxury, and community-centered experiences.
Junior Minister for Tourism and Culture Honourable Luce Hodge-Smith has reaffirmed the Government of the Virgin Islands' commitment to strengthening the Territory's presence in key international markets following her participation in the 2026 American Society of Travel Advisors (ASTA) Caribbean Showcase in St.
Kitts Marriott Resort, the four-day gathering brought together more than 100 travel advisors from the United States alongside Caribbean tourism officials, destination representatives, suppliers, and leading travel brands. The event featured destination presentations, educational sessions, marketplace business meetings, and networking opportunities designed to connect travel professionals directly with regional destinations.
Honourable Hodge-Smith took part in a featured General Session moderated by ASTA President and Chief Executive Officer Zane Kerby. The panel brought together several prominent regional leaders, including St. Kitts and Nevis Minister for Tourism Honourable Marsha T. Henderson, Premier of Nevis Honourable Mark A.G.
Vincent and the Grenadines Minister for Tourism and Maritime Affairs Honourable Dr. Kishore Shallow, and Turks and Caicos Islands Minister for Tourism Honourable Zhavargo Jolly. Discussions during the showcase centered on emerging travel trends, evolving visitor expectations, and strategic pathways for sustainable growth across the Caribbean.
Industry leaders emphasized a marked increase in demand for personalised and culturally authentic travel experiences, alongside luxury, wellness, marine offerings, and meaningful community engagement that move beyond the traditional sun, sea, and sand product. Reflecting on the event, Hodge-Smith explained that the showcase offered a valuable firsthand look at how regional destinations leverage ASTA's extensive network to promote their tourism offerings and engage directly with travel professionals who guide client bookings. "The ASTA Caribbean Showcase provided a valuable opportunity for us to observe firsthand how destinations are using the organisation's extensive network to connect directly with travel advisors and promote their tourism offerings," Hodge-Smith stated in a Government Information Service release. "We saw how destinations such as St.
Kitts and Nevis were able to present their product, participate in the trade show and engage with travel professionals who influence where their clients travel." Hodge-Smith added that today's traveler is increasingly seeking cultural authenticity, immersive experiences, and meaningful engagement with local communities.
She noted that this shift presents a significant opportunity for the Virgin Islands, given the richness of its heritage, culture, natural environment, and unique island experiences. According to the Ministry of Tourism, Culture, and Sustainable Development, active participation in major industry forums forms a central component of the Government's broader strategy to diversify the tourism sector, boost competitiveness, and establish strategic partnerships that generate long-term economic benefits for local residents.
Primary source: BVI Platinum